Lot Essay
With Rolex original fitted presentation box.
Ref. 6264 and ref. 6262 are the twin references - the only difference between the two is the bezel: steel for ref. 6262 and black insert for 6264 - heirs to their previous counterparts: ref. 6239 and 6241. The evolution is in the movement, as they mount the new calibre 727, natural evolution of the previous 722-1.
Production of ref. 6264 lasted for a very short time, compared to other Daytona models: only around 3 years, from the late 1960s to 1972. Consequently, it is one of the rarest Daytona references, both modern and vintage. Obviously, the Paul Newman version is even more difficult to find. When, however, a Paul Newman 6264 accompanied by its original box and in the condition of the present example comes to auction, collectors realize they are witnessing an exceptional opportunity.
Indeed, the present example is as close to "as-new" condition as a nearly half a century old watch gets. The satin on the lugs is superbly preserved, as are the razor sharp edges of the case. The usually dented black insert of the bezel is in this case spotless. The case back is virtually untouched, its milling as crisp as when the watch left the workshop. The dial is flawless. The only hint of the passage of time is the even, charming tone shift of the luminous material of the accents and in the hands, now a warm hazelnut/ivory hue.
For the avid Daytona collector this is a nearly unique occasion, and it may well be years before a similar example comes again to the market.
Ref. 6264 and ref. 6262 are the twin references - the only difference between the two is the bezel: steel for ref. 6262 and black insert for 6264 - heirs to their previous counterparts: ref. 6239 and 6241. The evolution is in the movement, as they mount the new calibre 727, natural evolution of the previous 722-1.
Production of ref. 6264 lasted for a very short time, compared to other Daytona models: only around 3 years, from the late 1960s to 1972. Consequently, it is one of the rarest Daytona references, both modern and vintage. Obviously, the Paul Newman version is even more difficult to find. When, however, a Paul Newman 6264 accompanied by its original box and in the condition of the present example comes to auction, collectors realize they are witnessing an exceptional opportunity.
Indeed, the present example is as close to "as-new" condition as a nearly half a century old watch gets. The satin on the lugs is superbly preserved, as are the razor sharp edges of the case. The usually dented black insert of the bezel is in this case spotless. The case back is virtually untouched, its milling as crisp as when the watch left the workshop. The dial is flawless. The only hint of the passage of time is the even, charming tone shift of the luminous material of the accents and in the hands, now a warm hazelnut/ivory hue.
For the avid Daytona collector this is a nearly unique occasion, and it may well be years before a similar example comes again to the market.